What happens to light when it hits a shiny object? - Presentation

When light encounters a shiny object, it undergoes a process called reflection. This phenomenon is explored in an educational presentation that delves into the reasons why we experience light and darkness and its significance in our daily lives. The presentation encourages pupils to discuss photographic reflections, introducing concepts such as symmetry and encouraging them to use these terms in conversation. A potential homework activity challenges students to take their own photographs of reflections, aiming to contribute to a thematic photographic exhibition on reflection.

The educational material also explains the function and design of a periscope, a device that enables the user to see over obstacles. It describes how a periscope uses two plane mirrors set at 45° angles to reflect light through a 90° turn, allowing for observation from a concealed position. This principle is applied in various real-life situations, such as on double-decker buses and in submarines. Students are tasked with designing and creating their own periscopes, taking into account the learnt principles of reflection and mirror angles. The presentation goes on to illustrate how reflection is utilised in everyday objects, such as car wing mirrors, telescopes, make-up mirrors, and dentist’s mirrors, highlighting the pervasive role of reflection in our surroundings.